Avoid using spermicidal contraceptives, if possible (however, if they are the only form of contraceptive available to you, it is better to practice safer sex by using them). If you use a barrier method of birth control (diaphragm, condoms, cervical caps) with spermicidal jelly, see your health care provider to discuss other methods of birth control before stopping your current method.

Begin sexual activity at a later age.

Have sex with just one person (monogamy).

Make sure that any foreign objects that you insert into your vagina (such as tampons) are placed properly. Be sure to follow the guidelines as to how long to leave the object in, how often to change it, or how often to clean it.